News from the Field Archives - National Wraparound Initiative (NWI)
Study Explores Relationship Between Stigma and Children’s Emotional and Behavioral Health
May 30, 2025 | NWI
A recent study investigates how stigma experienced by parents in sexual and gender minority (SGM) families relates to their children’s emotional and behavioral health. The study shows a clear link between the stigma faced by parents and their children’s mental health in SGM families.
Mental Health Campaign Dramatically Cuts Treatment Delays for Psychosis
May 30, 2025 | NWI
A targeted mental health awareness campaign significantly reduced the time it takes for individuals experiencing psychosis to seek and receive treatment in New Orleans, according to a new study.
Father’s Mental Health Can Impact Children for Years
May 30, 2025 | NWI
New research reveals that when paternal depression goes undiagnosed or unaddressed, the negative social and behavioral effects on children can persist for years. The study reports that children exposed to paternal depression when entering kindergarten are far more likely to have teacher-reported behavioral difficulties and poor social skills at age 9.
The Opportunities and Effects of Climate Action on Adolescents
May 30, 2025 | NWI
In recent years, the issue of climate change has mobilized young people across the globe to participate in climate justice protests, campaigns, and marches, and even to lead some of the world’s largest climate action organizations. Research shows that young people are particularly concerned about and conscious of climate change and uniquely inspired to find solutions, make a difference, and participate in climate action.
Teens With Mental Health Conditions Use Social Media Differently
May 30, 2025 | NWI
Adolescents with mental health conditions report distinct and often more negative experiences on social media compared to their peers. Those with internalizing conditions like anxiety and depression were more likely to compare themselves to others, struggle with self-control, and experience mood changes tied to likes and comments. On average, teens with any mental health condition spent about 50 minutes more daily on social media than those without. While causality is unclear, these patterns suggest social media may amplify emotional challenges.
A Framework for Authentic Engagement of Youth in Creating Policy
May 30, 2025 | NWI
The Authentic Youth Engagement in Policy Framework builds on prior research and has been refined via the lived experiences of young people and the day-to-day practices of youth-serving organizations. It outlines four interrelated components that are essential to meaningful youth engagement and shows how these components are associated with outcomes for youth, organizations and the community.
Education Department Halts Funding for School Mental Health
May 30, 2025 | NWI
The Trump administration says it will stop paying out $1 billion in federal grants that school districts across the country have been using to hire mental health professionals, including counselors and social workers.
Recommendations to Center Young People and Families in Youth Probation
April 27, 2025 | NWI
In this report, young people and their families who have experienced probation offer insights into the youth probation system’s strengths and areas for improvement. They share recommendations for transforming probation into a model focused on accountability, personal growth, positive behavior change, and long-term success.
Not-For-Profit Foster Care Agencies Are Being Forced to Close Due to a Lack of Liability Insurance
April 27, 2025 | NWI
Lawsuits, regulations, social inflation and policy failure have made it more difficult for not-for-profit agencies to obtain liability insurance, leading to closures and placing further stress on the child welfare system. This report describes the problem, and offers policy solutions.
How Social Platforms Can Address the Youth Mental Health Crisis
April 27, 2025 | NWI
While social media platforms may contribute to harm for some youth, they also can provide an avenue for positive social connection and/or direct young people to helpful – even life-saving – resources. This article explores steps social media platforms can take to increase their positive impact.